Paper, Ink, Scissors, & Stamps

Buttons 'n Burlap ...

noreply@blogger.com (Deb Neerman) — Thu, 21 Jun 2012 16:45:00 +0000

Hello crafty-stampers, hope you're enjoying a fabulous week!

Today's card was created for Our Creative Corner's "Buttons 'n Burlap or Bows" challenge using the [flipped] sketch from the current Mojo Monday challenge. To participate in the OCC challenge, I used wooden Prima buttons, jute burlap ribbon, and tied l'il bows in the buttonholes. Quick and dirty ...

This card also qualifies for a number of fabulous challenges; for a complete list, please see the bottom of this post. And for the down-low on all of the exciting product used to create this card, check out the Card Recipe, below.

Sooooo, on Tuesday Sheila, her DH, Reid The-Wild-Child, and I attended a funeral service for Sheila's elderly neighbor. The service was lovely ... a true celebration of her life ... and was attended by many neighbors, friends, and family members.

During the memorial service, the Minister called for a moment of silence to remember the faithful dead. As the Church grew quiet, Reid turned to his Dad and loudly exclaimed, "Hey, Dad, you have some of their CD's!"

Thanks so much for spending part of your busy day with me!

Today's Challenges:

Crafts and Me: Anything Goes
Crafty Boots: Material [Burlap / Cheesecloth]
Creative Card Crew: 1-2-3 [1 Memo Pin/2 Fabrics/3 Buttons]
LEJ Designs: Recycle / Household Item [Cheesecloth, String]
Little Red Wagon: Get Krafty [Card Stock]
Mojo Monday: Sketch
Our Creative Corner: Buttons 'n Burlap or Bows
Simon Says Stamp and Show: A Bit of Brown
Take a Word: Sewing [Buttons, Burlap, Cheesecloth]
The Ribbon Carousel: Heavy Metal [Memo Pin/Jute Ribbon]
The Sisterhood of Crafters: Going in Circles
Twisted Tuesday: Get Krafty and Recycle [Cheesecloth, String]

Card Recipe:

Card Stock: Kraft Card Stock by PTI; Manila Card Stock by Ranger
Designer Paper: "Crowded Attic" Paper Stash by Tim Holtz
Stamp: Sentiment from "Words for Thought" Stamp Set by Tim Holtz
Ink: Aged Mahogany, Gathered Twigs, and Vintage Photo Distress Inks by Tim Holtz
Other Color Medium: Walnut Ink Crystals
Accessories: Cheesecloth; Cotton String; Burlap Jute Ribbon by The Funkie Junkie Boutique; Wooden Buttons by Prima; Memo Pin by Tim Holtz
Tools: Glossy Accents, Mini Mister by Ranger; Foam Dimensionals
Finished Size: 5 1/2" x 4 1/4"

#5 of 12 of 2012 ...

noreply@blogger.com (Deb Neerman) — Mon, 18 Jun 2012 18:05:00 +0000

Happy Monday, stampers ... hope your Father's Day weekend was long and wonderful!

Today's tag was created for Tim Holtz's "12 Tags of 2012," June edition. For Tim's stepped-out tutorial ... or a look at his gorgeous tag, clicky HERE.

This tag qualifies for a number of fabulous challenges ... for a complete list, please see the bottom of this post. And for the down-low on all of the product I used to create this tag, please check out the Tag Recipe, below.

Sooooo, this weekend Sheila's family ... including Reid-the-Wild-Child ... came over for dinner. As we sat down to eat, Sheila reminded the Wild Child to say a prayer before eating.

"I don't have to!"

"Of course you do do," Sheila insisted. "We always say a prayer before eating at our house."

"That's at our house," Reid explained, "but this is Deb's house and she knows how to cook!"

Thanks so much for spending part of your very busy day with me!

Today's Challenges:

Addicted to Stamps: One or More Pins [Trinket Pin]
Fashionable Stamping: Nature
Gingerloft Challenge: Vintage
Hot Shot Craft: Distress Inks
Let's Ink it Up: Favorite Embellishments [Tim Holtz Metal]
Paper Crafting Journey: Color It Up [Hand-Colored Photo]
Simon Says Stamp and Show: Show a Little Brown
Speedy Fox and Friends: Vintage
Sugar Creek Hollow: More is Better
The Cheerful Stamp Pad: In the Garden
The Ribbon Girl: Pink, Purple, Green

Tag Recipe:

Tag: #8 Manila Tag by Ranger
Designer Paper: 'Crowded Attic' Stash by Tim Holtz
Photo: Circa 1928, Personal Collection
Stamps: Sentiment from 'Stuff to Say' Stamp Set by Tim Holtz; Background Images from 'Papillon' Stamp Set by Tim Holtz
Ink: Dried Marigold, Gathered Twigs, Vintage Photo, and Worn Lipstick Distress Inks by Tim Holtz
Stains: Dusty Concord, Picket Fence, Victorian Velvet, and Worn Lipstick Distress Stains by Tim Holtz
Other Color Medium: Adirondack 'Silver' and 'Snow Cap' Paint Dabber by Ranger
Accessories: Film Strip Ribbon, Foliage, Hinge Clip, Jump Ring, Lavish Trimmings, Long Fasteners, Mini Numeral, Muse Token, Tissue Tape, Trinket Pin, and Word Band all by Tim Holtz; Deco Brad Washer
Tools: Ink Blending Tool, Non-Stick Craft Sheet, Tiny Attacher, Pen Nibs and Pen Nib Holder by Tim Holtz; Heat Gun

Dad: A Man Among Boys ...

noreply@blogger.com (Deb Neerman) — Wed, 13 Jun 2012 16:50:00 +0000

Happy Stump Day, hampers ... hope everything is wonderful in your stampy-crafty world!

Today's card was created for Artistic Outpost's June Referral Program. This month, the challenge is to create a project with a masculine theme. Since Father's Day is right around the corner, I decided to create a card for Dad using stamps from AO's "Secretary Pool" and "SteamPunk" collections. I love these stamps!

This card also qualifies for a number of fabulous challenges ... for a complete list, please see the bottom of this post. And for the down-low on all the product used in this card, please check out the Card Recipe, below.

Sooooo, Sheila complained to me that she was getting some really bizarre messages on her answering machine. I had to hear what she described as 'bizarre,' so I hurried over to check it out. Sure enough, caller after caller would speak, then say 'beep.'

"Let's listen to your outgoing message." I suggested.

Sheila pressed 'play,' and we heard: "Hi, I'm not in right now, so please leave a beep after the message." Mystery solved ...

Thanks so much for spending part of your busy day with me!

Today's Challenges:

Fab 'n' Funky: Father's Day
Frilly and Funkie: Photo Inspiration
Inspiration Journal: Create a L'il Sunshine ['Rays' Texture Fade]
My Mojo Monthy: Man Up [Sharing Creativity and Love for Dad]
Order of the Opus Gluei: It's All Relative
Papercraft Star: Father's Day
Party Time Tuesday: All Things Mechanical / Father's Day
Playing In Paradise: Texture
Scrap-It Girl: Punches [Two Circle Punches]
Simon Says Stamp and Show: Anything Goes
Sugar Creek Hollow: Make Your Own DP [Focal Image: Blended Ink Over Stencil / Background: Sanded, Blended Ink Over Embossed Card Stock]
The Stamp Man: Make It For a Man

Card Recipe:

Card Stock: Kraft and True Black Card Stock by PTI; Core'dinations Kraft Core Card Stock by Core'dinations
Stamps: "Secretary Pool" and "SteamPunk" Stamp Sets by Artistic Outpost
Ink: Black Soot, Gathered Twigs, and Walnut Stain Distress Inks by Tim Holtz
Accessories: Jute Burlap by the Funkie Junkie Boutique
Tools: Die-Cut Machine by Sizzix; "Rays" Texture Fade by Tim Holtz; Non-Stick Craft Sheet, Ink Blending Tools, and Sanding Grip by Tim Holtz; "Mini Gears" Stencil by Crafter's Workshop; Glossy Accents by Ranger; Circle Punches by Stampin' Up; Foam Dimensionals
Finished Size: 4 1/4" x 5 1/2"

Tim's 'Tissue Wrap Collage' Technique ...

noreply@blogger.com (Deb Neerman) — Wed, 23 May 2012 15:42:00 +0000

Happy Stump Day, hampers ... hope you're enjoying a fabulous week!

Today's altered tag was created for Studio L3's Compendium of Curiosities Challenge number 6, using Tim's 'Tissue Wrap Collage' technique found on Page 38 of The Compendium of Curiosities, Volume 2. This week's challenge is sponsored by The Funkie Junkie Boutique ... which just happens to be one of my favorite places to shop! There's still time to play along ... and there's a $25 Gift Certificate to The Funkie Junkie Boutique up for grabs!

This tag qualifies for a number of fabulous challenges ... for a complete list, please see the bottom of this post. And for the down-low on all the product I used to create this tag, check out the Tag Recipe, below.

Thanks so much for spending part of your busy day with me!

Today's Challenges:

Anything Goes Challenge: Color: Black + One Other
Crazy Amigo Challenge: Birds
Creative Craft Challenge: Distressing
Just Some Lines: Birds
LEJ Designs: Anything But a Card
Ladybug Crafts Ink: Things With Wings
Oldie But A Goodie: Things With Wings [Old Clock Faces]
Party Time Tuesdays: Vintage / Shabby Chic
Shopping Our Stash: Bingo [Row 'G']
Top Tip: Dig Out the Old [Clock Faces: 2 Yrs/Twill Ribbon: 5 Yrs]
Use it Tuesday: Two [Twill Ribbon / Clock Faces]

Tag Recipe:

Card Stock: Black Card Stock by PTI
Tag: #8 Manila Tag by Ranger
Stamps: Lost and Found Stamp Set by Tim Holtz; Urban Grunge Stamp Set by Tim Holtz
Ink: Jet Black Archival Ink by Ranger; Gathered Twigs and Walnut Stain Distress Inks by Tim Holtz
Other Color Medium: Pitch Black and Stream Adirondack Paint Dabbers by Ranger
Accessories: Grungeboard and Tissue Wrap by Tim Holtz; Vintage Bingo Card; Twill Ribbon; Walnut Ink-Stained Cotton String; Clock Faces by Teresa Collins; Rub-On's by Making Memories; Chit Chat Stickers by Tim Holtz; Ransom Alpha Parts by Tim Holtz; Long Fastener, Brad Washer, Game Spinner, and Adornments Charm by Tim Holtz; Glue 'n Seal Adhesive by Ranger
Tools: Die-Cut Machine by Sizzix; Mover and Shaper Base Tray, Mini-Bird and Cage Die by Tim Holtz for Sizzix

#4 of 12 of 2012 ...

noreply@blogger.com (Deb Neerman) — Fri, 18 May 2012 17:37:00 +0000

Happy Friday, crafty-stampers!

Today's tag was created for Tim Holtz's "12 Tags of 2012," May edition. For Tim's stepped-out tutorial ... or a look at his amazing creation, clicky HERE.

I did things a bit differently this time around, the main difference being that I decided against the UTEE'd flowers. They came out nice enough ... but I decided I preferred a more vibrant flower versus the gauzy, filmy embossed look. I'll use those UTEE'd flowers and leaves in another project, she said, as she added 'em to her "use-later pile."

This tag also qualifies for a number of fabulous challenges ... for a complete list, please see the bottom of this post. And for the down-low on all of the product I used creating this tag, check out the Tag Recipe, below.

Soooo, I was hangin' out at Sheila's yesterday when she got a frantic phone call from her ~~crazy~~ fun sister, Jill.

"Are you insane?!? Do not 'try it out' or 'break it down!' Take it to the Sheriff's Office ... immediately!" Sheila demanded before hanging up.

"What's goin' on?" I asked.

"Jill found an old shotgun up in her attic ... she says she thinks it's loaded."

"Oh, well, then you did the right thing to tell her to take it to the Sheriff's Office."

Twenty minutes later, Sheila gasped, then got a strange look on her face. Within seconds, she was on her feet, grabbing for her car keys.

"Let's go, Deb, quick! I forgot to tell her to call first!"

Thanks so much for spending part of your busy day with me ... have a very crafty weekend!

Today's Challenges:

Alota Rubber Stamps: Tic-Tac-Toe [Ribbon/Flowers/Gems]
Crafty Ribbons: Flowers
Delightful Challenges: Add Ribbon
Desert Islands Crafters: #5, 6, 7, 8, 9, and 10
My Mojo Monthly: Floral Frenzy
Our Craft Lounge: Photo Inspiration [Colors]
Paper Play: Destruction [Grunge]
Rainbow Lady's Challenge: Let's Get Inky
Recycle, Re-Purpose & Re-Invent: Old Thread Spool
Shelly's Terrifically Thrilling Thursday: Anything Goes
Sugar Creek Hollow: Tags
Sundays With Chrissy: Things With Wings
The Cheerful Stamp Pad: Tags
Unique Crafters Challenge: Ribbon
Waste Not Wednesday: Stash: Fabric Flowers, Leaves

Tag Recipe:

#8 Manila Tag: Ranger
Vintage [1977] Simplicity Dress-Makers Pattern: Personal Collection
Stamps: 'Seamless Experience' Stamp Set by Tim Holtz; Wings, Unknown
Ink: Pacific Point Dye Ink by Stampin' Up; Gathered Twigs and Walnut Stain Distress Inks by Tim Holtz
Distress Stain: Broken China Distress Stain by Tim Holtz
Accessories: Gold Rhinestones by Mark Richards; Seam Binding by Hug Snug; Fabric Flowers and Leaves; Vintage Thread Spool; Cash Key, Hanger Clip, Jump Ring, and Tissue Tape by Tim Holtz
Tools: 1 3/8" Circle Punch by Marvy; Glue 'n' Seal Adhesive by Ranger; Non-Stick Craft Sheet and Ink Blending Tools by Tim Holtz

Tim's 'Shattered Stains' Technique ...

noreply@blogger.com (Deb Neerman) — Mon, 14 May 2012 18:40:00 +0000

Happy Monday, crafty stampers ... hope your Mother's Day weekend was long and wonderful!

Today's grungy card was created for Studio L3's Compendium of Curiosities Challenge number 5, using Tim's 'Shattered Stains' technique found on page 48 of his amazing Compendium of Curiosities, Volume II.

This week's challenge is once again sponsored by the fabulous Simon Says Stamp Store and there's a $25 gift certificate up for grabs!

This card also qualifies for a number of blog challenges ... for a complete list, please see the bottom of this post. And for the down-low on all of the exciting product I used to create this card, check out the Card Recipe.

Sheila's cousin, Jeremy, is a newly-minted attorney and eager for some work, so he offered to update Sheila and her DH's Last Wills. They asked me to drop by this weekend and witness the signing.

When I arrived, Jeremy ushered us all into the dining room and asked us to take a seat.

"Now," he said to them, "which one of you wants to go first?"

Give it a minute ...

Thanks so much for spending part of your busy day with me!

Today's Challenges:

Allsorts: Card for a Man or Boy
Just Us Girls: Generational [2nd Generation Background]
Quirky Crafts: Masculine and Color Recipe [Blue, Brown]
Simon Says Stamp and Show: Anything Goes
Squigglefly: Use a Sentiment for Main Focus
Studio L3: Technique #5, Shattered Stains

Card Recipe:

Card Stock: Kraft Card Stock by PTI; Manila Card Stock by Ranger
Designer Paper: Lost and Found Paper Stash by Tim Holtz
Other Paper: Grunge Board by Tim Holtz
Stamps: 'Grunge Cirque,' 'Remnants,' 'Stuff to Say,' and 'Warehouse District' Stamp Sets by Tim Holtz
Ink: Jet Black Archival Ink by Ranger; Gathered Twigs and Walnut Stain Distress Inks by Tim Holtz
Distress Stains: Peeled Paint, Rusty Hinge, and Vintage Photo Distress Stains by Tim Holtz
Paint: Rock Candy Distress Crackle Paint by Tim Holtz
Accessories: Game Spinners, Mini Sprocket Gears, and Sprocket Gears by Tim Holtz
Tools: Die-Cut Machine by Sizzix; Gadget Gears, Mini Gears, and Weathered Clock Dies by Tim Holtz; Foam Dimensionals; Non-Stick Craft Sheet, Edge Distressing Tool, and Ink Blending Tools by Tim Holtz
Finished Size: 4 1/4" x 5 1/2"

Color Me Yellow, Kraft, & Ivory ...

noreply@blogger.com (Deb Neerman) — Wed, 09 May 2012 17:43:00 +0000

Happy Stump Day hampers ... thanks for swingin' by today!

Today's card was created for Our Creative Corner's current challenge, 'Color Trifecta.' To see all of the amazing entries ... or to play along, clicky HERE.

This card also qualifies for a number of other fabulous challenges ... for the complete list, please see the bottom of this post. And for the low-down on all of the product I used to create this card, check out the Card Recipe, below.

Soooooo, Sheila's birthday is coming up and she's still acting a little nutty about aging in general and her looks in particular.

When I stopped by last evening, I found her staring into a mirror, her poor DH standing by with that deer-in-the-headlights look.

"Have you seen this?" she asked, pointing to a gray hair in her bangs.

"What?" he asked innocently. "The wrinkles?"

Eeeeek!

Thanks so much for spending part of your busy day with me!

Today's Challenges:

Clear It Out Challenge: Card for a Mentor / Flowers
Craft Room Challenge: Emboss It [Dry]
Craft Your Passion: Torn or Distressed Edges [Distress Ink]
Crafting for all Seasons: Flowers
Crafty Boots: Yellow
Creative Card Crew: Sentiment as Focal Point
Creative Craft Challenge: Anything Goes
Hooked on Craft Challenges: Flowers
Inspiration Emporium Journal: Bring on the May Flowers
Oldie But A Goodie: Die-Cuts [Old Collage Sentiment Image]
Our Creative Corner: Color Trifecta
Paper and Such Design: April Showers Bring May Flowers
Paper Creations: Flowers
The Order of the Opus Gluei: Beyond the Garden Gate
Use Your Stuff: Nature Calls
Victorine Originals: Flowers

Card Recipe:

Card Stock: Kraft, Ivory Card Stock by PTI; Core'dinations Card Stock, Distress Collection by Tim Holtz
Image: Heartwarming Vintage by Crafty Secrets
Ink: Gathered Twigs Distress Ink by Tim Holtz; Adirondack Alcohol Ink by Ranger
Accessories: Deco Washers by HyGlo; Tiny Fasteners by Tim Holtz
Tools: Die-Cut Machine by Sizzix; Retro Circles Texture Fade by Tim Holtz; Tattered Floral Strip Die by Tim Holtz; Vintage Lace Strip Die by Tim Holtz; Sanding Tool by Tim Holtz
Finished Size: 4 1/4" x 5 1/2"

Tim's 'Faded Layers' Technique ...

noreply@blogger.com (Deb Neerman) — Mon, 07 May 2012 19:00:00 +0000

Happy Monday, hoarding paper-crafters ... hope your weekend was long and wonderful!

Today's card project was created for Studio L3's Compendium of Curiosities Challenge, using Tim's 'Faded Layers' technique found on page 43 of his amazing "Compendium of Curiosities, Volume II."

This card also qualifies for a number of fabulous challenges ... for the complete list, please see the bottom of this post. And for the down-low on all the products I used to create this card, check out the Card Recipe.

Soooooooo, this weekend Sheila dragged me off to the Mall so she could hit the sale at the Clinique counter. She hit it hard ...

When she got home, she dragged me into a chair next to her while she applied one 'miracle' product after another. When she was done, she turned to her DH and asked, "So, honestly ... what age would you say I am?"

Carefully, he answered, "Well, judging from your skin, twenty. Your hair, eighteen. Your figure, twenty-five."

"Oh, you are so sweet ... I love you!" Sheila gushed.

"Well, wait a minute," he replied, "I'm not done adding it up yet."

Thanks so much for spending part of your busy day with me!

Today's Challenges:

2 Sisters Challenge: Anything Goes
Catered Crop: Letter 'B' [Brads/Bow/Bag Label]
Desert Island Challenge: Itinerary [#2, #4, #8]
Drunken Stampers: It's Not Easy Being Green
Great Impressions: Anything Goes
Just Keep on Creating: Anything Goes
Just Tracy's Crafts: Anything Goes
Recycle, Re-Purpose, Re-Invent: Anything Goes/Tea Bag Label
Sentimental Sundays: For a Special Woman
Simon Says Stamp & Show: Fav Stamp [Embroidery BG Stamp]
Speedy Fox & Friends: Three of Something [Photo Turns/Brads]
The Craft Garden: Color Inspiration

Card Recipe:

Card Stock: Core'dinations Kraft Core Card Stock by Tim Holtz; Vintage Cream Card Stock by PTI
Manila Tag: Ranger Industries
Stamps: Embroidery Background Stamp; Quirk Stamp, Unknown; J 1812 Vintage Office Supply Stamp
Ink: Jet Black Archival Ink by Ranger
Distress Inks: Broken China, Gathered Twigs, Peeled Paint, Rusty Hinge, and Squeezed Lemonade Distress Inks by Tim Holtz
Other Ink: Vibrant Turquoise and Fresh Lime 'Dylusion' Inks by Ranger
Accessories: Yogi Tea Bag Label; Adage Ticket by Tim Holtz; Photo Turns and Brads by CTMH; Heart Clip; Typewriter Key Charm, Jump Ring, and Charm Clip by Tim Holtz; Seam Binding Tape
Tools: Die-Cut Machine by Sizzix; Mini Sewing Room Die by Tim Holtz for Sizzix; Doily Die by PTI; Mask Sheets by Tim Holtz; 'Collage' Texture Fade Embossing Folder by Tim Holtz
Finished Size: 4 1/4" x 5 1/2"

Joie de Vivre ...

noreply@blogger.com (Deb Neerman) — Fri, 04 May 2012 19:15:00 +0000

TGiF, crafty stampers!

Today's card was created for the Artistic Outpost's May Referral Program. The challenge this month is to use Artistic Outpost stamps with a "travel" theme. For this project, I'm using stamps from AO's "Paris Exposition" stamp set.

For all of the challenging deets, clicky HERE ... and for a complete list of challenges I'm entering with this card, please refer to the bottom of this post.

Soooooooo, yesterday I agreed to tag along with Sheila while she took Reid, The Wild Child for a haircut.

While flipping through a magazine, Sheila found a hairstyle that she loved.

"May I take this next door to make a copy of this hairstyle photo?"

"Wellllllll, okay," the stylist replied, "but leave some ID ... your driver's license or a credit card."

"Leave some ID while my son is sitting here getting his haircut?!?" Sheila asked incredulously.

"Please. We need something you'll come back for."

Thanks so much for spending part of your busy day with me ... have a very creative weekend!

Today's Challenges:

365 Cards, #63: Greatest Talent [Vintage-Inspired]
4 Crafty Chicks: Favorite Embellishment [Tim Holtz Charms]
Artistic Outpost: Travel [Paris Exposition Stamp Set]
Color Throwdown: Color Recipe
Do You Stack Up: Circles
Paper Crafting Journey: Vintage
Papertake Weekly: Anything Goes
Scrap-It Girl: May Flowers
Simon Says Stamp and Show: A Kaleidoscope of Color
The Artistic Stamper: Spots & Stripes [Striped Map]
The Stamp Man: Favorite Technique [Distress Stains/Stencils]
Unique Crafters: Ribbon & Fiber [Seam Binding/Burlap Ribbon]
Whimsy Inspiration: Spots and Dots

Card Recipe:

Card Stock: Vintage Cream Card Stock by PTI
Designer Paper: "Destinations" Stack by Tim Holtz
Other Paper: Manila Tag by Ranger
Stamps: Artistic Outpost's "Paris Exposition" Stamp Set
Ink: Jet Black Archival Ink by Ranger
Distress Ink: Gathered Twig Distress Ink by Tim Holtz
Distress Stains: Broken China, Picket Fence, and Wild Honey Distress Stains by Tim Holtz
Other Color Medium: Pure Sunshine Dylusions Ink Spray by Ranger
Accessories: White Jute Mesh Burlap by The Funkie Junkie Boutique; Clock Face by Heidi Swapp; Charm Clip, Jump Ring, Fleur de Lis Charm, Game Spinner, and Long Fastener by Tim Holtz; Flower by Prima; Seam Binding by Hug Snug
Tools: Circle Stencil by The Crafter's Workshop; Foam Dimensionals; Glue Dots; 1/16" Hole Punch
Finished Size: 4 1/4" x 5 1/2"

Tim's "Marbled Stain" Technique ...

noreply@blogger.com (Deb Neerman) — Mon, 30 Apr 2012 17:20:00 +0000

Happy Monday, stampers ... hope your weekend was long and wonderful!

Today's card was created for Studio L3's Compendium of Curiosities challenge, using Tim's "Marbled Stain" technique found on Page 46 of his "Compendium of Curiosities, Volume II." This week's challenge is sponsored by eclectic Paperie ... one of my very favorite places to shop online. If you own Tim's new book and you like to shop ... as if ... c'mon and play along!

I'm also entering this card in several other fabulous challenges. For a complete list, please refer to the bottom of this post. And for the down-low on all the product used to create this card, please check out the Card Ingredients, below.

Soooooo, this weekend Sheila threw a little get-together for some of her friends and family, including her ~~insane~~ fun sister, Jill. One of Sheila's oldest friends is a local psychiatrist and Jill decided to ask him how he would know if someone was crazy or not. A dangerous question ...

"Well," he said, "we might ask a patient how he or she would drain a filled bathtub, using either a teaspoon, a teacup, or a bucket."

"Ohhhhh, I get it," Jill exclaimed. "A normal person would use the bucket as it's bigger than the spoon or teacup!"

"Not exactly," replied the doctor, "A normal person would pull the drain plug."

Thanks so much for spending part of your busy day with me ... you rock!

Today's Challenges:

365 Cards: All Boy ... Sort Of
Bloggers Challenge: Create Your Own Background Paper
Chocolate, Coffee, & Cards: Bingo [Distress/Punch/Ribbon]
City Crafter Challenge: Burlap
Compendium of Curiosities: Marbled Stain
Craft Us Crazy: Favorite Stamps [Stampers Anonymous]
Crafty Catz Weekly: Anything Goes
Crafty Mess Challenge: Anything Goes
Our Craft Lounge: Vintage
Paper Crafting Journey: Vintage
Sweet Stampin' Challenge: Anything But a Square
That Craft Place: One for the Boys
The Corrosive Challenge: Tim Holtz [Marbled Stain Technique, Distress Stains, Distress Inks, Stamp, Sprocket Gears, Mini Sprocket Gears, Long Fasteners]
Wags 'n Whiskers: Distressing

Card Ingredients:

Card Stock: Kraft and Vintage Cream Card Stock by PTI
Stamp: Word Strip from "Stuff to Say" Stamp Set by Tim Holtz
Digital Image: Land of Nod Studio's
Ink: Black Soot and Walnut Stain Distress Ink by Tim Holtz
Other Color Medium: Crushed Olive, Frayed Burlap, Picket Fence, and Pumice Stone Distress Stains by Tim Holtz
Accessories: Burlap Ribbon; Sprocket Gears and Mini Sprocket Gears by Tim Holtz; Mini Fasteners by Tim Holtz
Tools: Foam Dimensionals; Corner Rounder Punch; Ink Blending Tool and Craft Sheet by Tim Holtz
Finished Size: 4 1/4" x 5 1/2"

#3 of 12 of 2012 ...

noreply@blogger.com (Deb Neerman) — Thu, 26 Apr 2012 17:43:00 +0000

Happy Thursday, stampers! Hope you're having a wonderful week!

Today's tag was created for Tim Holtz's "12 Tags of 2012," April edition. For Tim's stepped-out tutorial, or to see his amazing tag, clicky HERE.

This tag also qualifies for a number of fabulous challenges. Please refer to the bottom of this post for the complete list. And for the down-low on all of the exciting product I used to create this tag, check out the Tag Ingredients, below.

Unfortunately, real life has gotten in the way of my crafty plans this month but I couldn't let April slip away without participating in Tim's "12 Tags of 2012 Challenge." Imagine my ~~dismay~~ surprise when I discovered Blogger has completely redesigned the post options ... what fun. I'm x-ing my fingers that this post launches ... and looks ... the way I'd like because what I'm seeing in the preview window is definitely not what I like or want!

Thanks so much for taking the time to visit me today ... you rock!

~Hugs,

Today's Challenges:

City Crafter: Rough Around the Edges (Frayed Burlap String)
Crafting for all Seasons: Anything But a Card
Crafts and Me: Embossing
Deep Ocean Challenge: Dies (Bird Branch Die)
Fab 'n' Funky: No DP
Order of the Opus Gluei: Flourish (Embossed Flourish Frame)
Simon Says Stamp Challenge: Anything Goes
The Stamp Man Challenge: Distressed Style
The Three Muses: Words
Truly Scrumptious: Distressing and Die Cut

Tag Ingredients:

#8 Manila Tag: Ranger Industries
Other Paper: Grungeboard by Tim Holtz
Stamp: Music Sheet Background Stamp by River City Rubber
Ink: Jet Black Archival Ink by Ranger Industries; Broken China, Gathered Twigs, Mustard Seed, Peeled Paint, Stormy Sky, Tumbled Glass, Vintage Photo, and Wild Honey Distress Inks by Tim Holtz
Accessories: Frayed Burlap Strings; Seam Binding Tape by Hug Snug; Metal Key, Metal Crown, and Metal Word Band by Tim Holtz; Peeled Paint and Vintage Photo Distress Embossing Powder by Tim Holtz; Fancy and Floral Frames Texture Fade by Tim Holtz; Screw-head Brad by Tim Holtz
Tools: Die-Cut Machine; Bird Branch Die by Tim Holtz; Heat Tool; Foam Mounting Tape; Ink Blending Tools by Tim Holtz; Distressing Tool by Tim Holtz; Mini Mister by Tim Holtz

Let's Play Bingo!

noreply@blogger.com (Deb Neerman) — Mon, 19 Mar 2012 15:30:00 +0000

Happy Monday, crafty-stampers ... hope your weekend was long and wonderful!

Today's card was created for the current Our Craft Corner challenge, "Bingo!" The challenge calls for the use of a Bingo card and the color green ... bingo! For all of the challenging deets, and to see the amazing projects created by the OCC designers, clicky HERE.

This project also qualifies for a number of fabulous blog challenges ... please refer to the bottom of this post for the complete list. And for the down-low on all of the products used, please check out the Card Recipe, below.

The feather was added to this card after one of my sweet kitties brought it to me in my Craft Cave ... she's helpful like that ...

Soooooo, this weekend I caught up with Sheila helping Reid-the-Wild-Child with his homework.

"Alright, Reid, what is our nation's capital?"

Reid promptly replied, "Washington, DC."

"Very good! Now tell me, what does the 'DC' stand for?" Sheila asked.

"Dot com!"

Thanks so much for spending part of your day with me!

~Hugs,

Today's Challenges:

Crazy 4 Challenges: Let's See Some Green
Daring Cardmakers: Green / Lucky Number 7
Do You Stack Up: Favorite Color / Green
Here Comes the Boys: DIY Embellishment / Cat Toy Feather
Just Inspirational: Inspirational Photo
Just Some Lines: Bingo Stamp, 2002 / Vintage Rook Card
Little Red Wagon: Lucky Number 7
Our Creative Corner: Bingo/Green
Scrapper's Delight: Luck of the Irish / Green
Shelly's Images: Anything Goes
Sugar Creek Hollow: Vintage / Layers
Sweet Stampin' Challenge: Use Green

Card Recipe:

Card Stock: Kraft Card Stock by PTI
Designer Paper: Retro Grunge Paper Stash by Tim Holtz
Stamps: Bingo Card by Vicki Enkoff; Regal Flourish Stamp Set by Tim Holtz
Ink: "Black Soot," "Frayed Burlap," and "Gathered Twigs" Distress Inks by Tim Holtz
Other Color Medium: "Frayed Burlap" Distress Stain
Accessories: Vintage Rook Game Card, Personal Collection; Vintage (1935) Anagram Letter Tiles, Personal Collection; Burlap; Feather; Journaling Ticket by Tim Holtz
Tools: Die-Cut Machine by Sizzix; "Patchwork" Texture Fade by Tim Holtz; Ink Blending Tool by Tim Holtz; Foam Dimensionals; Glue Dots; Tiny Attacher Tool by Tim Holtz
Finished Size: 4 1/4" x 5 1/2"

Reality Has Its Limits ...

noreply@blogger.com (Deb Neerman) — Fri, 16 Mar 2012 15:25:00 +0000

Happy Friday, hoarding paper-crafters!

Today's hybrid card project was created using a digital image from the Land of Nod Studios for The Stamp Man's "Vintage" challenge to submit to the Order of the Opus Gluei's "Branching Out" challenge.

This card also qualifies for a number of fun and fabulous blog challenges ... for a complete list, please see the bottom of this post. And for the down-low on all of the exciting product I used, please refer to the Card Recipe, below.

To create the aged and crazed appearance on the Tim Holtz Plaquette, I followed the amazing Wendy Vecchio's "Faux Crazed Porcelain" tutorial ... you can find Wendy's step-by-step instructions HERE. The mini-gears were cut from chipboard with Tim's dies, then heat embossed using Distress Embossing powders.

Soooooooooo, yesterday Sheila asked me to drive her to the car dealership so that she could pick up her vehicle. When we arrived, the receptionist told us the Sheila's keys had been locked inside.

"I better not be paying for this snafu!" Sheila remarked. Loudly.

When we went out back to the Service Department, we found a mechanic working feverishly to unlock the driver's side door. I took a chance and walked around to the passenger side and tried the door handle and ... surprise, it was unlocked!

"Hey," Sheila announced to the mechanic, "it's open!"

The mechanic said, "Oh, yeah, I know. I already got that side."

I did not know that you could actually see smoke comin' out of someone's ears ...

Thanks so much for spending part of your busy day with me ... have a very crafty St. Patrick's Day weekend!

~Hugs,

Today's Challenges:

7 Kids Challenge: Anything Goes (Mini Gears Die/Distress Inks)
Anything Goes Challenge: Boyz to Men
ATC's & Cards with Attitude: Steampunk / Anything Goes
Bunny Zoe's Crafts: Shabby Chic / Vintage
Cards And More: Primped
Craft Room Challenge: Shabby / Vintage
Creative Card Crew: Vintage
Gingersnap Creations Color Challenge: Two Colors Only
Jellypark Friends: Stamping/Embossing/Cardmaking
Just Tracy's Crafts: Use a Hat
Milk Coffee Challenge: Anything Goes
One Stitch at a Time: Use a Digi
Order of the Opus Gluei: Branching Out
The Crazy Challenge: No Designer Paper
The Paper Shelter Challenge: For the Boys
The Stamp Man Challenge: Vintage
Whimsy Inspires: Wet Embossing (Gears)

Card Recipe:

Card Stock: Kraft Card Stock by PTI
Other Paper: Chipboard
Digital Image: Land of Nod Studio's Collage Sheet
Stamps: Harlequin Background Stamp by Stampin' Up; All Other Stamps from "Stuff To Say" Stamp Set by Tim Holtz
Ink: "Jet Black" Archival Ink by Ranger; "Pumice Stone" Distress Ink by Tim Holtz; "Chestnut Roan" Fluid Chalk Ink by Clearsnap
Other Medium: Mister Huey's "Calico White" Color Mist by Studio Calico; "Diet Cola" Memories Mist by Stewart; "Pitch Black" Paint Dabber by Adirondack; "Rock Candy" Distress Crackle Paint by Tim Holtz; Glue 'n' Seal Adhesive by Ranger
Accessories: Number Plaquette, Game Spinner, Washer, and Long Fastener by Tim Holtz; Black Brads; "Black Soot" and "Weathered Wood" Distress Embossing Powder by Tim Holtz
Tools: Die-Cut Machine by Sizzix; Awl; Hammer; Heat Tool; Distress Embossing Ink by Tim Holtz; Craft Pick by Tim Holtz; "Mini Gears" Movers and Shapers Die by Tim Holtz; "Tiny Tabs and Tags" Bigz Die by Tim Holtz
Finished Size: 4 1/4" x 5 1/2"

Alcohol Ink Plaid ...

noreply@blogger.com (Deb Neerman) — Wed, 14 Mar 2012 15:47:00 +0000

Happy Stump Day, hampers!

Today's card project was created for Studio L3's Grungy Monday, #39. This week, the challenge, sponsored by Simon Says Stamp, is to create a plaid pattern on card stock using alcohol inks following Tim Holtz's technique on 'The 12 Tags of Christmas, 2009, Day 3." You can see Linda's sample and read all about the challenge, HERE ... to see Tim's projects and to check out the tutorial, clicky HERE.

Things were not going well for me with this challenge and after several attempts, I decided to throw in the towel ... can't create 'em all! While swiping off the excess alcohol inks from my felt pad, I created the above pattern and decided I loved it ... a happy accident! And I much prefer this delicate plaid to other, bolder patterns.

I'm entering this card in a number of fab blog challenges; for the complete list please refer to the bottom of this post. And for all of the exciting product info, check out the Card Recipe, below.

Soooooo, yesterday I was hanging out with Sheila when her crazy sister, Jill, stopped by with a question:

"How many rolls of wallpaper did you say you bought for your bedroom?"

"Twelve." Sheila answered.

"Well, that's weird," Jill mused, "I measured and our rooms are almost exactly the same size so I bought twelve rolls for my bedroom too, but I've got five rolls left over!"

"Yeah," said Sheila. "I did too."

Thanks so much for spending part of your busy day with me!

~Hugs,

Today's Challenges:

A Gem of a Challenge: Perfect Pastels
CES Challenge: Charmed
Celebrate the Occasion: Metal
City Crafter: Things In My Heart (This Papillon Stamp Set!)
Crafter's Companion: Spring
Crafty Sentiments: Things With Wings
Crazy 4 Challenges: Spring
Deep Ocean Challenge: Butterflies
Forever Friends: Animals / Use a Charm
Grungy Monday #39: Alcohol Ink Plaid
Karen's Doodles: Something Special (Papillon Stamp Set)
Ladybug Crafts Ink: Anything Goes
Lindy's Link Party: Spring Fling
Simon Says Stamp & Show: Anything Goes
Sweet Stampin' Challenge: Layers

Card Recipe:

Card Stock: Stampers Select White Card Stock by PTI; Glossy White Card Stock by Ranger
Designer Paper: Lost and Found Paper Stash by Tim Holtz
Stamps: "Papillon" Stamp Set by Tim Holtz; "Stuff to Say" Stamp Set by Tim Holtz
Ink: "Jet Black" Archival Ink by Ranger
Other Color Medium: Assorted Alcohol Inks by Adirondack; "Juniper" Paint Dabber by Adirondack
Accessories: Washers, Long Fasteners, and Jump Ring by Tim Holtz; Philosophy Charm by Tim Holtz; Vintage Needlepoint Cotton by Jolles, Personal Collection
Tools: Felt Pad and Handle by Tim Holtz; Awl; Hammer; Foam Dimensionals
Finished Size: 4 1/4" x 5 1/2"

#2 of 12 of '12 ...

noreply@blogger.com (Deb Neerman) — Mon, 12 Mar 2012 14:15:00 +0000

Happy Monday, crafty stampers ... hope your weekend was long and wonderful!

Today's altered tag was created for Tim's "12 Tags of 2012, March," for entry in the Order of the Opus Gluei's "Celebrating Trees and Nature" challenge following the Bingo pattern at Fashionable Stamping.

For more info on Tim's March, 2012, tag challenge ... or to check out Tim's tag and step-by-step tutorial, clicky HERE ... the other challenge info can be found below.

In addition to these challenges, this tag also qualifies for a number of fabulous challenges ... please refer to the bottom of this post for the complete list. And for the down-low on all of the exciting product I used to create this tag, check out the Tag Ingredients, below.

Soooooooo, this weekend Sheila and I planned a shopping expedition to the Mall. When Sheila's DH caught wind of our plans, he invited himself along.

"You two just go on ahead," Ken said. "I'm gonna browse in the hardware store."

An hour or so later, we returned and saw him at the checkout counter. The clerk was ringing up the last of a pile of tools and supplies that would fill two wheelbarrows.

"OMG, are you buying all this stuff?" Sheila asked incredulously.

"Well, yes," he said, embarrassed. Then waving his arm toward the interior of the store he added, "But look at all the stuff I'm leaving behind!"

Uh oh, there's one that'll come back to haunt him ...

Thanks so much for spending part of your busy day with me!

~Hugs,

Today's Challenges:

7 Kids College Fund Challenge: Not a Card
Fashionable Stamping: Bingo (Metal/Distressing/Vintage)
Frosted Designs: Use Kraft Paper (Tag)
Guylou's Inimitability: Things with Wings
Hot Shot Craft: Ribbon
Inspire Me Fridays #49: Anything Goes
Lisa Somerville's Blogger Challenge: 3-D
Order of the Opus Gluei: Trees and Nature
Pattie's Creations: Tags
Prairie Fairy Fridays: Distress It
Secret Crafter Saturday: No Image, Just Words
Sentimental Sundays: Recycle (Stamped on Packaging)
Sunday Stamper: Misty ("Diet Cola" Memories Mist on Tag)
Tim Holtz's 12 Tags of 2012: March
Totally Papercrafts: Favorites (Seam Binding/Metal/Die-Cuts)

Tag Ingredients:

Card Stock: "Pure Black" and "Kraft" Card Stock by PTI
Designer Paper: Snippets from "Lost & Found" Collection by Tim Holtz
Other Paper: Grungeboard by Tim Holtz
Stamps: Sentiment from "Lost & Found" Stamp Set by Tim Holtz
Ink: "Black Soot," "Gathered Twigs," and "Walnut Stain" Distress Inks by Tim Holtz
Other Color Medium: "Brushed Corduroy" and "Wild Honey" Distress Stains by Tim Holtz; "Diet Cola" Memories Mist by Stewart Superior
Accessories: Seam Binding by Hug Snug; Metal Foliage by Tim Holtz; Memo Pin by Tim Holtz; Trinket Pin by Tim Holtz; Long Fastener by Tim Holtz; Journaling and Adage Tickets by Tim Holtz; "Gilded Lily" Embossing Powder by Powder Key
Tools: Die-Cut Machine by Sizzix; Butterfly Die by PTI; "Wood Grain" Texture Fade by Tim Holtz; "Vintage Lace" Die by Tim Holtz; Tag and Bookplates Die by Tim Holtz; Tonic Scissors, Craft Sheet, Sanding Block, and Blending Tool by Tim Holtz; Wonder Tape by Ranger; Mini Glue Dots; Foam Dimensionals; Glossy Accents by Tim Holtz
Finished Size: 3 1/8" x 6 1/4"

"Going Green" Paper Bag Card ...

noreply@blogger.com (Deb Neerman) — Fri, 09 Mar 2012 15:10:00 +0000

Happy Friday, stamping paper-crafters!

Today's altered paper bag card was created for the Inspiration Journal's current challenge, "Go Green." Not surprisingly, this month's challenge is a color challenge. For all of the challenging deets ... and to see all of the amazing "green" entries, clicky HERE.

A number of other fabulous challenges were the inspiration for this altered paper bag card ... for the complete list, please refer to the bottom of the post.

Lots of vintage ephemera and fun details went into this project such as a vintage milk bottle cap, vintage Bingo card images, vintage anagram letter tiles, and three metal Milagros charms.

Here's a look-see at the interior of the card:

And the covers:

If you'd like to give this paper bag card a home, it is available for purchase for $12.99 ... with free shipping to any U.S. address. Simply post a comment letting me know you're interested.

Sooooo, last night I stopped by Sheila's and came upon the happy couple revisiting an old argument:

"Honey," Sheila's DH was saying, "why do you keep bringing that up? I thought your policy was forgive and forget.'"

"It is," Sheila said. "I just don't want you to forget that I've forgiven and forgotten."

Thanks so much for spending part of your busy day with me ... hope you have a very crafty weekend!

~Hugs,

Today's Challenges:

Alphabet Challenge: 'C' for Celebrate St. Patrick's Day
C.R.A.F.T.: Song Inspiration: 'Wearing of the Green'
Clearly I Stamp: Anything Goes
Delightful Challenges: St. Patrick's Day
Diva's by Design: Favorites (Vintage/Distressing/Charms)
Digistamps 4 Joy: Green
Do You Stack Up: Go Green
Everybody Art: Paper Bag
Hiding In My Craft Room: Color Challenge
Hybrid Chick Card Caravan: Lucky Green
Inky Impressions: Luck of the Irish
My Grafico Challenge: St. Patrick's Day
Paper Issues: Go Green or Go Home
Paper Play: Recycle (Paper Bags)
Paper Pretties: Going Green
Papercraft Star: Lucky St. Patrick's Day
Pixie Dust Challenge: Show Us Your Irish
Scrap-Creations: St. Paddy's Day
Scrap-it Girl: Goin' Green/Recycle
Shelly's Images: Green/Gold St. Patrick's Day
Southern Girls Challenge: Show Us a Secret
The Queen's Royal Digi-Challenge: Anything Goes/Green
Whimsical Wednesday: Go Green

Card Ingredients:

Paper Bag: Paper Bag by ULine
Designer Paper: "Ireland" and "St. Patrick's Day" by Paper Love Designs (NLA)
Card Stock: Vintage Cream by PTI
Other Paper: Vintage Bingo Card, Distressed Shipping Tags, Mini Paper Bag, and Vintage Image from Personal Collection; Vintage Photo Corners; Scalloped Title Card, Unknown; Shamrocks by Recollections; Vintage Playing Card
Stamp: Sentiment by Limited Edition
Digital Image: Land of Nod Studio
Ink: "Gathered Twigs," "Vintage Photo," and "Walnut Stain" Distress Inks by Tim Holtz; "Chestnut Roan" Fluid Chalk Ink by Clearsnap
Accessories: Memo Pin by Tim Holtz; Crown by Leisure Arts' Memories in the Making; Metal Milagros Charms; Charm Clip by Tim Holtz; Seam Binding by Martha Stewart; Vintage Anagram Letter Tiles, Personal Collection
Tools: Die-Cut Machine by Sizzix; "Brackets" On the Edge Die by Tim Holtz for Sizzix; Foam Dimensionals; Ink Blending Tool by Tim Holtz; Corner Chomper by WRMK'ers
Finished Size: 6" x 12"

Bird's Nest in a Bottle ...

noreply@blogger.com (Deb Neerman) — Wed, 07 Mar 2012 05:20:00 +0000

Hello and happy Stump Day, hampers!

Today's altered project was created for the current Simon Says Stamp and Show Challenge. This week, the "Bottle It" challenge is to create a project using a bottle ... betcha didn't see that coming, LOL! For all of the challenging deets ... or to see the amazing 'bottled' projects already posted ... clicky HERE.

This altered art project qualifies for several fabulous blog challenges ... a complete list is available below. And for the short-list of product I used to create this bird's-nest-in-a-bottle, please check out the Ingredients at the bottom of this post.

Soooooooo, yesterday I stopped by Sheila's for a quick second. When I parked my car, I heard voices coming from their garage/workshop and headed that way. Turned out, it was Sheila's DH, Ken, and Reid-the-Wild-Child:

"So, there's this girl at school who likes me." I overhead The-Wild-Child say.

"Well, how do you feel about that?" Ken asked.

"Okay I guess but I don't want to get married yet."

"Well, of course you don't!" Ken replied.

"Yup, when I get old enough I want to marry a really nice lady ... a smart lady ... a pretty lady ... a lady who'll be a real good Mommy ... and a lady who will make me laugh and smile everyday!" Reid pronounced.

"Better make up your mind, Son."

Yikes! Good thing Sheila didn't hear that!

Thanks so much for spending part of your busy day with me!

~Hugs,

Today's Challenges:

Always Crafting Creative Mondays: Anything Goes
Catered Crop: Ribbon
Craft Your Passion: Anything Goes
Deep Ocean Challenge: Spring
Incy Wincy: Something Old=Bottle/Something New= Stamp
Gingerloft: Spring
Gingersnap Creations: Two Colors (Turquoise/Honey Yellow)
One Stitch at a Time: Reuse/Recycle (Apothecary Jar/Bottle)
Paper Creations Ink: Spring is in the Air
Pollycraft Monday: Spring is Sprung
Smudgy Antics: Anything Goes
The Kraft Journal: Fun Shapes
The Pixie Cottage: Anything Goes
Tuesday Throwdown: New Life

"Nest" Ingredients:

Bottle: Vintage Apothecary Jar/Bottle from Thrift Store
Nest Material: Excelsior
Paper: Kraft Paper Shipping Tag
Stamp: Sentiment from 'Ink Stained Room' Collection by Queen Kat Designs
Ink: Black Soot Distress Ink by Tim Holtz; Walnut Ink Crystals
Other Color Medium: Tumbled Glass, Walnut Stain, and Wild Honey Distress Stains by Tim Holtz
Accessories: Wooden Eggs, Personal Collection; Hand Charm from Charm Stash; Seam Binding by Hug Snug; Vintage Anagram Letter Tiles, Personal Collection
Finished Size: 7" x 4" x 3"

An Irish Spring~Punk ATC ...

noreply@blogger.com (Deb Neerman) — Mon, 05 Mar 2012 17:16:00 +0000

Happy Monday, Stampers ... hope your weekend was long and wonderful!

Today's ATC was created for the Artistic Outpost's March Referral Challenge. This month, the challenge is to create a "Spring-punk" project ... however you might interpret that. This is my Irish-inclined interpretation of AO's Spring-punk theme using the year stamp from the 'Paris Exposition' set and a word stamp from the 'French Flight' set.

This ATC also qualifies for several terrific blog challenges ... for a complete list, please refer to the bottom of this post. And for the down-low on all of the product I used, check out the ATC Ingredients, below.

Sooooooooo, this weekend the DH and I spent some time with Sheila and her DH.

As we were sitting chatting, a teensy disagreement blew up between Mr. & Mrs. Sheila:

"You're impossible." Sheila sputtered.

To which Mr. Sheila replied, "No; I'm next to impossible."

Give it a minute ...

Thanks so much for spending part of your busy day with me!

~Hugs,

Today's Challenges:

ATC's & Cards With Attitude: Anything Goes
Crafts 4 Eternity: Digital Delights (Steampunk Gent)
Crafty Ann's Challenge: Anything But a Card
Crafty Calendar: Spring Clean (Designer Paper/Yarn)
Forever Night: Photo Inspiration
House of Gilli: Gilli Goes Green
Mark's Finest Papers: ReUse (Ribbon/Fibers ReUsed)
Pal's Paper Arts: Color Inspiration (Added Orange)
Pattie's Creations: Vintage
Really Reasonable Ribbon: Green/Ribbon
Secret Crafter Saturday: Green for Go
Simply Create Too: I'm SssOooo Lucky
Stamp, Scrap & Doodle: Use Your Stash (DP/Fibers)
Take a Word: Masculine
The Craft Garden: Photo Inspiration
The Crazy Challenge: Steampunk

ATC Ingredients:

ATC Base: Matboard
Designer Paper: 'St. Patrick's Day'' from Paper Love Designs (NLA)
Stamps: Date Stamp from Paris Exposition Set by Artistic Outpost; Word Stamp from French Flight Set by Artistic Outpost
Digital Image: Land of Nod Studio
Ink: Black Soot and Gathered Twigs Distress Ink by Tim Holtz
Accessories: Green Ribbon and Fiber from Stash; Hinge Clip by Tim Holtz; Sprocket Gears by Tim Holtz; Game Spinner by Tim Holtz; Crown Adornment by Tim Holtz; Watch Face by Tim Holtz; Light Bulb by Tim Holtz; Gold Wire from Stash; Vintage Photo Corner, Personal Collection
Tools: Foam Tape; Glue 'n' Seal Adhesive by Ranger
Finished Size: 2 1/2" x 3 1/2"

A 'Faux Leather' Vintage Valise ...

noreply@blogger.com (Deb Neerman) — Fri, 02 Mar 2012 16:25:00 +0000

TGiF hoarding paper-crafters!

Today's project was created for the Gingersnap Creations Random Redhead Challenge, "Use a Faux Technique." I decided to use the 'Faux Leather' technique to create the look of an old leather valise using Tim Holtz's 'Vintage Valise' die. For all of the challenging deets ... and to see all of the amazing 'faux' techniques posted ... clicky HERE to visit the current Random Redhead challenge at Gingersnap Creations.

I'm also entering this project in the My Mojo Monthly challenge, Vintage Vibes. I love any-and-all-things vintage and this great die by Tim Holtz is no exception. I've been collecting antiques my entire life and my love for this esthetic has spread into my crafting life.

This project qualifies for several other fab challenges ... check out the complete list, below. And for the down-low on the product I used to create this 'faux leather' valise, please see the Ingredients list at the bottom of this post.

Sooooo, yesterday I arrived at Sheila's at the exact moment her DH was rushing out the door:

"What's the hurry, Big Guy ... tryin' to get away from me?" I asked.

"Heck no, Deb, Sheila's in there ... ummm ... singing."

"And that's a problem because ... ?"

"Because I want to make it clear to the neighbors that I'm not beating her."

Thanks so much for spending part of your busy day with me ... have a very crafty weekend!

~Hugs,

Today's Challenges:

4 Crafty Chicks: Anything But a Card
Anything Goes Challenge: Altered (Cereal Box)
Creative Time for Me: No Electronic Cutter
Desert Islands Crafts: Itinerary (#1, #2, #8, #9, #10)
Frosted Designs: Numbers (On Luggage Tags)
Inspire Me Fridays #48: Anything Goes
More Than Favors: Vacation (Luggage)
Paper Crafting Journey: Anything Goes
Paper Play Challenges: Old (Stamps) New (Valise Die)
Scrap It Girl: Go Green & Recycle (Recycled Cereal Box)
Stamp 'n' Doodle: Embossing (Heat Embossing)
The Artistic Stamper: Travel
Tuesday Throwdown: Paper Tearing (Tore Masking Tape)

Valise Ingredients:

Valise Base and Accessories: Recycled Cereal Box
Card Stock: "Always Artichoke" and "Tangerine Tango" by Stampin' Up; Blue Card Stock by Georgia Pacific
Masking Tape
Stamps: All Stamps from "Ephemera" Stamp Set by 7gypsies
Ink: "Jet Black" Archival Ink by Ranger; "Gathered Twigs" and "Walnut Stain" Distress Inks by Tim Holtz
Other Color Medium: "Copper," "Espresso," and "Juniper" Paint Dabbers by Adirondack
Accessories: Jute Twine, Unknown; Mini Screw-Top Fasteners by Tim Holtz; Clear Embossing Powder by Ranger; Glossy Accents by Tim Holtz; Crafter's Pick by Tim Holtz
Tools: Die Cut Machine by Sizzix; "Vintage Valise" Die by Tim Holtz; Crop-A-Dile by WRMK'ers; Heat Tool
Finished Size: 6" x 4 1/8"

'Journey by Air' Paper Bag Card ...

noreply@blogger.com (Deb Neerman) — Wed, 29 Feb 2012 16:30:00 +0000

Happy Stump Day, hampers ... hope you're having a great day!

Today's altered art project is a paper bag card created for the current Simon Says Stamp and Show challenge ... to use Tim Holtz Idea-ology product. I've used a number of different Tim-products in this paper bag card ... for a complete list, check out the Card Recipe at the bottom of the post.

Here's a look at the interior of the card:

And finally, a look at the front and back covers of the card:

If you'd like to give this paper bag card a home, it is available for purchase for $12.99 ... free shipping to any U.S. address. Simply post a comment letting me know you're interested.

I've entered this paper bag card in a number of terrific blog challenges ... check out the complete list, below.

Soooooooooo, yesterday Sheila and I teamed up to run some errands. Because Sheila's ~~crazy~~ fun sister Jill is without wheels, we had to pick up a few things for her, too. We stopped by her house to drop off her necessities and found her swearing at her computer.

"I can't sign in to my (*omitted for Jill's protection*) account!" Jill complained.

"Well, it's looking for your password ... just type in your password." Sheila insisted.

"I can't ... it's not working. Will you try?"

"Sure. What's your password?" Sheila asked.

"MickeyMinniePlutoHueyLouieDeweyDonaldGoofyTallahassee."

"Why on earth do you have such a ridiculous password?!?" Sheila asked.

Jill rolled her eyes and said: "Hello! It has to be at least 8 characters long and include at least one capital."

I kid you not ...

Thanks so much for spending part of your busy day with me!

~Hugs,

Today's Challenges:

2 Sisters Challenge: Anything Goes
Allsorts Challenge: Anything Goes
Craft Room Challenge: Orange, Brown, Cream
Creative Craft Challenge: Boys Will Be Boys
Crazy 4 Challenges: 2 Layers
DRS Designs: Use a Tag
DYSU: Distressing
Little Red Wagon: Vintage Item (Bingo Card)
Lollipop Crafts: Tags, Tags, and Tags
Moving Along With the Times: Layers
Order of the Opus Gluei: That's the Ticket
Paper Creations Ink: Show Us Your Style (Distressing)
Ribbon Carousel: Anything Goes (Spooled Item)
Scrappy Frogs: Die-Cuts
Sparkle Creations: Numbers (Bingo Card)
Stamps & Fun = Creativity: Non-Cute
Sweet Stampin' Challenge: It's a Man Thing
Try it on Tuesday: Alter it w/Mosaic (Bingo Card)

Card Recipe:

Paper Bag: Hardware Store Paper Bag by ULine
Card Stock: Vintage Cream and True Black Card Stock by PTI
Designer Paper: 'The World' by K&Company; 'Ledger' by Daisy D's; 'Luggage' by Paper Love Designs
Other Paper: Distressed Shipping Tags
Stamps: 'Sea Water' Stamp, Unknown; All Other Stamps from "The Journey" Stamp Set by Tim Holtz
Ink: "Black Soot," "Gathered Twigs," and "Walnut Stain" Distress Ink by Tim Holtz
Other Color Medium: "Vintage Photo" and "Spun Sugar" Distress Stains by Tim Holtz; Walnut Ink Crystals
Accessories: "Adage Tickets" by Tim Holtz; "Trimmings" by Tim Holtz; "Philosophy Tag" by Tim Holtz; "Memo Pin" by Tim Holtz; Jump Ring by Tim Holtz; Metal Airplane Charm by Standard Issue; Vintage Garment Pin by 7gypsies; Mini-Safety Pins; Vintage Photo Corners; Cotton String; Vintage Anagram Letter Tiles, Personal Collection
Tools: Die-Cut Machine by Sizzix; Rectangle Die by Spellbinders; "Steampunk" On the Edge Die by Tim Holtz; Distress Tool by Tim Holtz; Glossy Accents by Tim Holtz; Ink Blending Tool and Craft Sheet by Tim Holtz
Finished Size: 6" x 12"

Black & White & Red All Over ...

noreply@blogger.com (Deb Neerman) — Mon, 27 Feb 2012 16:26:00 +0000

Happy Monday ... hope your weekend was long and wonderful!

Today's ~~frightening~~ card was created for Lisa Somerville's Blogger's Challenge. This week, it's a color challenge: black, white, and a splash of red.

I took the literal interpretation of 'a splash of red' by flicking red paint onto the card front using red acrylic paint on a toothbrush ... kinda looks like something that might be found at the scene of a crime, huh? However, no one was injured or kilt in the making of this card project ... it only looks that way! For all of the challenging deets, clicky HERE.

This card also qualifies for a number of fab challenges ... please refer to the bottom of this post for the complete list. And for the down-low on all of the product I used, check out the Card Recipe, below.

Sooooooooo, Sheila has the courage, if not always the skills, to tackle any home repair project. For example, in her garage are pieces of a lawnmower she once tried to fix.

This weekend, I ~~got stuck~~ offered to ferry Sheila's ~~insane~~ wacky sister, Jill, around town on her errands. (Now, that's a story for another day!) As I was returning her home, she suggested we swing by Sheila's for a quick visit.

I can't say we were surprised when we found Sheila attacking her vacuum cleaner with a screwdriver:

"I can't get this *%#$!* thing to cooperate," she explained when she saw us.

"Say, why don't you drag it out to the garage and show it what you did to the lawnmower?!?" Jill suggested.

Thanks so much for spending part of your busy day with me ... stay safe!

~Hugs,

Today's Challenges:

4 Crafty Chicks: Color Inspiration
Alphabet Challenge: 'B' for Busy Bugs
Catered Crop: Use the Color Red
Creative Monday's: Anything Goes
Cute Card Thursday: Winged Things
Dream Valley Challenges: Just for Men
Gingerloft Challenge: It's a Zoo (Butterflies)
Gingersnap Creations: Two Colors
Here Come the Boys: Vintage Feel
Lisa Somerville's Blogger's Challenge: Color Recipe
Make It Monday: Any Paper Craft
Stamp, Scrap, & Doodle: Manly Card
The Corrosive Challenge: Another Dimension (Film Ribbon)
The Crazy Challenge: Anything Goes

Card Recipe:

Card Stock: White Card Stock by PTI
Stamps: All Stamps from "Papillon" Stamp Set by Tim Holtz
Ink: "Black Soot" Dye Ink by Tim Holtz
Other Color Medium: Naphthol Red Light Fluid Acrylic Paint by Golden
Accessories: Film Strip Ribbon by Tim Holtz; Red Metal Photo Corner by Daisy D's; Black Eyelets
Tools: Tiny Attacher Tool by Tim Holtz; Crop-A-Dile by WRMK'ers; Corner Chomper b WRMK'ers; Old Toothbrush
Finished Size: 4 1/4" x 5 1/2"

It's Wearable ... But Is It Art?

noreply@blogger.com (Deb Neerman) — Fri, 24 Feb 2012 16:47:00 +0000

TGiF, crafty stampers!

Today's project was created for Studio L3's Grungy Monday challenge. This week, Linda has challenged us to create 'Wearable Art' using product by Tim Holtz. For all of the challenging deets, clicky HERE ... to check out Tim's blog, products, or his oh-so-inspiring art gallery, clicky THERE.

This piece is very special to me as all of the elements in the Pocket Watch have personal meaning.

I lined the interior with a vintage milk bottle cap, then added a Sprocket Gear, a Game Spinner, a vintage Bingo marker, a vintage key marked "Connecticut," and a w-a-y early Tim-product, Design Originals word/collage art. (Anyone else still hoarding this ~~ancient~~ Tim-product?!?) I used a Swivel Clasp to attach a flattened bottle cap I filled with a vintage telephone image and Glossy Accents, a cool dripping faucet charm, and a vintage key. The whole she-bang was added to Bead Chain and ... finis. So easy, even I could do it!

This project qualifies for a number of fabulous challenges ... for the complete list, refer to the bottom of this post.

Soooooooooo, Sheila's DH has a notoriously bad memory for ... well, everything ... and decided earlier this year to set up an account with our favorite florist so that a loverly bouquet and a heart-felt love note would automatically be delivered for Sheila's birthday, at Christmas, etc. A good plan, no?

Soooooooooo, yesterday was Sheila and her DH's wedding anniversary. Naturally, I stopped over to drop off a card and a l'il somethin'-somethin' for the happy couple and managed to time my arrival to Mr. Sheila's.

As we walked into the house together, he kissed his blushing bride and said offhandedly, "Hey, nice flowers, Honey. Where'd you get 'em?"

Methinks this would have been a good plan if Mr. Sheila had remembered his good plan ...

Thanks so much for spending part of your busy day with me ... have a very crafty weekend!

~Hugs,

Today's Challenges:

Allsorts: Anything Goes
Art Impression Stamps: Anything But
Cooking It Up With Katie: 3 Favs (Metal/Vintage Bits/TH Products)
Craft Us Crazy: Favorite Embellishments (Tim Holtz Products)
Crafty Catz: I Spy ... 'B' Things (Bottle Cap/Bingo Marker)
Frosted Designs: Shape It Up (3 Circles)
Inspire Me Friday's: Anything Goes
Just For Fun: Distress Him
More Than Favors: Circles
Penny's Challenges: Anything Goes
Ruby's Rainbow: Vintage
The Three Muses: Art in the Round

Pocket Watch Ingredients:

Pocket Watch by Tim Holtz
Paper: "Time" Word Art by Tim Holtz for Design Originals; Vintage Milk Bottle Cap, Personal Collection; Vintage Telephone Image, Personal Collection
Ink: "Gathered Twigs" Distress Ink
Accessories: Sprocket Gear by Tim Holtz; Game Spinner by Tim Holtz; Swivel Clasp by Tim Holtz; Bead Chain by Tim Holtz; Jump Rings by Tim Holtz; Brads by Tim Holtz; Bottle Cap; 'Dripping Faucet' Charm, Vintage Keys, and Vintage Bingo Marker, Personal Collection
Tools: Glossy Accents by Ranger Industries

Support Your Local Blogs ...

noreply@blogger.com (Deb Neerman) — Thu, 23 Feb 2012 17:51:00 +0000

Hello hoarding paper-crafters ... hope you're having a fabulous day!

I don't have a stamping project to share with you today, but I am here to share photos of all the crafty-stampy goodness that's landed in my mailbox this week!

First up, mucho marvelous metal from the magnificent 7gypsies:

I won this mesmerizing melange simply by posting a comment on their oh-so-inspiring blog. Thank you 7gypsies!

Next, this seriously spectacular stash of stamping stuff (and scrumptious May Arts ribbon!) from Our Craft Lounge:

I won this seriously super stuff by commenting on OCL's blog and Facebook page. Thank you so much, Our Craft Lounge!

Finally, some perfectly pretty and practical stamps from Paper Pretties:

I won this pile o'pleasure by participating in a Paper Pretties blog challenge! Thank you, Paper Pretties!

It certainly pays to participate in challenges ... and to support your favorite blogs and manufacturers!

I'll be back tomorrow with my Grungy Monday #37 project ... 'til then, stay safe!

~Hugs,

#1 of 12 of '12 ...

noreply@blogger.com (Deb Neerman) — Wed, 22 Feb 2012 15:17:00 +0000

Happy Stump Day, hampers!

Today's tag was created for Tim Holtz's "12 Tags of 2012" ... February, 2012. To play along ... there's still time! ... clicky HERE to visit Tim's blog to see his tag and check out his terrific tag tutorial!

This tag also qualifies for a number of fab challenges ... please refer to the bottom of this post for the complete list. And for the down-low on all of the product I used, check out the Tag Ingredients, below.

Sooooooooo, yesterday afternoon I popped in at Sheila's. When I arrived, Sheila was helping Reid-the-Wild-Child with his 'First Aid and Safety' homework. At least I think it was homework; it might have been Cub Scouting stuff ...

"So, Reid, what would you do if you had a younger sibling who swallowed a house key?" Sheila asked.

After a thoughtful pause, Reid answered, "I'd climb through the window!"

I feel safer already ...

Thanks so much for spending part of your busy day with me!

~Hugs,

Today's Challenges:

Anything Goes Challenge Blog: Altered Projects
Bunny Zoe's Crafts: Celebrations (Valentine's Day)
Cards & More: Glisten & Sparkle (Background Stamped w/Paint)
Celebrate the Occasion: Thinking of You
Crafty Bloggers: Shabby Chic
Crazy Amigo Challenge: Use a Tag
Creative Craft Challenge: Valentine's Day
Hooked on Craft Challenges: Hearts/Valentine's Day
Order of the Opus Gluei: Warm Fuzzies (Thanx, Ro!)
Our Craft Lounge: Ruffles (Tissue Tape Ruffle, Under Heart)
Paper and Such Design: Love
Papertake Weekly: Getting Krafty (Kraft Die-Cut Trims)
Party Time Tuesdays: Color/Photo Inspiration
Sparkle Creations: Use a Heart
Tiddly Inks Challenge: Sparkle It Up
Tim Holtz's 12 Tags of 2012: Valentine's Day Tag

Tag Ingredients:

Card Stock: Kraft Card Stock by PTI; Textured Card Stock by Bazzill
Other Paper: #8 Manila Tag
Stamp: Background Stamp from Valentine Silhouettes Stamp Set by Tim Holtz
Ink: "Aged Mahogany," "Barn Door," "Black Soot," "Fired Brick," "Gathered Twigs," "Spun Sugar," "Walnut Stain," and "Worn Lipstick" Distress Inks by Tim Holtz
Other Color Medium: "Calico White" Color Mist by Mister Huey; "Snow Cap" Paint Dabber by Adirondack; "Spun Sugar" Distress Stain by Tim Holtz; "Christmas Red" and "Rock Candy" Stickles by Tim Holtz
Accessories: Grungeboard by Tim Holtz; Tissue Tape by Tim Holtz; Seasonal Stickers by Tim Holtz; Seam Binding by Hug Snug; Word Tag, Baubles, Trinket Pin, and Jump Rings by Tim Holtz
Tools: Die-Cut Machine by Sizzix; "Valentine Background & Borders" Texture Fades Set by Tim Holtz; "Mini Love Struck" Die by Tim Holtz; "Vintage Lace" Strip Die by Tim Holtz; Non-Stick Craft Sheet by Tim Holtz; Distress Tool by Tim Holtz; Heat Tool; Foam Dimensional Tape; Glossy Accents by Tim Holtz

Summer by the Sea ...

noreply@blogger.com (Deb Neerman) — Mon, 20 Feb 2012 15:49:00 +0000

Happy Monday, crafty stampers ... hope your weekend was long and wonderful!

Today's card was created for Lisa Somerville's Blogger's Challenge. This week, Lisa has challenged us to create a project with a 'seashore' theme. For all of the challenging deets, clicky HERE. I've also incorporated the current challenge at Frosted Designs to use brads and/or eyelets in my card. This card qualifies for several other challenges ... you can see the complete list at the bottom of this post.

A few things: I stamped my 'seashore-themed' image on vellum using solvent ink, then heat set. I stamped Tim's film-strip image on Kraft card stock, cut out the l'il window-thingies with a craft knife, then placed the strip over a section of Tim's tissue tape. So easy, even I could do it!

For the complete list of product used, check out the Card Recipe, below.

Sooooooooo, this past Saturday night the DH and I spent the evening at Sheila's. Turned out that Reid-the-Wild-Child lost a tooth and was expecting a visit from You-Know-Who.

After the Wild-Child went to bed:

"C'mon, let's go play Tooth Fairy!" Sheila insisted.

We crept into Reid's room on tip-toe but somehow, we woke the l'il darlin' up. Seeing the money in Sheila's hand, he cried out, "I caught you two!"

We froze and tried to think of an explanation for why we, instead of Ms. T. Fairy, was putting the money under his pillow.

"You put that money back ... the Tooth Fairy left that for me! I'm not surprised that Mommy would do this, but not you, Auntie!" Reid said indignantly.

He's still not speaking to us ...

Thanks so much for spending part of your very busy day with me!

~Hugs,

Today's Challenges:

Crafty Catz: Favorite Things (Seam Binding, Distress Inks, Metal)
Dutch Dare Card Challenge: Distressing
Frosted Designs: Use Brads and/or Eyelets
Inspire Me Fridays: Anything Goes
Lisa Somerville's Blogger's Challenge: By the Seashore
My Sheri Crafts: 'Warm' Wishes
Sassy Studio Designs: Kraft
Shelly's Images: Anything Goes
Southern Girls Challenge: So Distressed
Stamps R Us Challenge: Anything Goes
The Pink Elephant: Print It!

Card Recipe:

Card Stock: Kraft and True Black by PTI
Other Paper: Vellum Card Stock by PTI; Vintage (1934) Dictionary Page
Stamps: "Wish You Were Here" by Diva Impressions (NLA); Film Strip Image from "Lost and Found" Stamp Set by Tim Holtz
Ink: Staz-On Solvent Ink by Tsukineko; "Black Soot," "Gathered Twigs," and "Vintage Photo" Distress Inks by Tim Holtz
Other Color Medium: "Old Paper" Distress Stain by Tim Holtz
Accessories: Metal Eyelets; Frame Holder; Black Brad; Seam Binding by Hug Snug; Tissue Tape by Tim Holtz
Tools: Tonic Scissors by Tim Holtz; Craft Knife by Olfa; Crop-A-Dile by WRMK'ers
Finished Size: 4 1/4" x 5 1/2"